MUTARE - Farmers in the area claim the introduction of tolls is damaging their profits. Local farmers who sell their produce in Harare told the Zimbabwean on Thursday that the tollgates were seriously affecting their profit margins, as they had to pass through the gates twice a day. (Pictured: Toll gates)
We have to part with US$12 to and from the market, said one farmer who produces tomatoes. Another farmer from Nyanga, who transport apples to Harare twice a week, said he was contemplating withdrawing the service.
We are planning to raise our prices, but this will affect our sales, said Timothy Murapa of Juliasdale plots. Farmers appealed to government to exempt them from paying the tolls. We are dealing with perishables and we need to sell our products at reasonable prices, added Murapa.
Since the introduction of tollgates, many farmers have increased their prices. A packet of potatoes, which used to sell at US$6, is now selling at US$10, while tomatoes that were being sold for 50 cents a pack now cost US$1.
Post published in: News